Virat Kohli's record against Australia is something that needs no introduction. There is something magical about this rivalry that goes just beyond your normal cricket, and come the 1st Test at Nagpur, Kohli will be the guy for both India and Australia, but for completely different reasons.
Former head coach Ravi Shastri, in conversation with Star Sports, spoke about how Virat Kohli can eventually turn out to be the horn in flesh for Aussies.
"Virat Kohli's record against Australia would spur him on. He would be charged up and want to start well. You should look at his first two innings. If he gets off to a start, he would be a thorn in flesh for Aussies. They would for sure won't want that to happen. Kohli has an average of just under 50 against Australia. Amazing record, that should really get him going," said Ravi Shastri.
It is worth noting Virat Kohli, after struggling for a period of around 3 years, has finally looked like his best self. He notched up three quick centuries, and this Test series can prove to be just the right kind of motivation for Virat to turn it on in the longest format of the game.
Virat Kohli's Test Record vs Australia
Kohli has always been at his best against the Aussies. In 36 innings played against the kangaroos, Virat has accumulated 1682 runs at an average of 48 and a strike rate of 52. He also has seven centuries and five fifties against his name.
- Innings: 36
- Runs: 1682
- Average: 48
- Strike Rate: 52
- 50s: 5
- 100s: 7
- Best: 169
Border Gavskar Trophy - Every Major Record
Most Runs
- Sachin Tendulkar: 3262
- Ricky Ponting: 2555
- VVS Laxman: 2434
Highest Scores
- Michael Clarke: 329*
- VVS Laxman: 281
- Ricky Ponting: 257
Most 100s
- Sachin Tendulkar: 9
- Steve Smith: 9
- Ricky Ponting: 8
Most 50s
- Sachin Tendulkar: 25
- Ricky Ponting: 20
- VVS Laxman: 18
Find out the other major records here.
The first match of the series is scheduled to be held on Feb. 9.